News release
Immediate release
16/06/09
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed an assurance from the Scottish Government that they are pressing the UK Government over laws which discourage non EU artists and performers from coming to Scotland.
Mr Gibson was speaking after he received written answers from Culture Minister Mike Russell regarding new UK anti terror laws which place greater restrictions on performers from outwith the EU visiting the UK.
The new laws were highlighted recently after Canadian Singer Allison Crowe and two band mates were refused entry into the UK and were deported because of the new rules.
Mr Russell responded that it was vital that performers and artist contributing to Scotland's world renowned festivals and events were welcomed and not shunned. He also said that UK immigration system should meet the needs of the whole of the UK and was pressing the Home Office to ensure that the distinct needs of Scotland were taken into account.
Mr Gibson, who is due to speak in a Festivals debate this week in Holyrood said....
"It is encouraging to see the Scottish Government pressing the case with the Home Office. These laws will do more to endanger the cultural life blood of Scotland than they will protect it from terrorism."
"These laws do no favours for culture in the UK whether it be England, Wales or Northern Ireland. I hope that Scotland can gain concessions from the new Home Office Minister Alan Johnston."
"Scotland should be seen as a welcoming and culturally open Nation (especially as this is the Year of Homecoming) however these laws contradict that image. I hope that the new Home Office Minister realises that the actions of his predecessor have tarnished that image and will make changes."
ENDS
Note: Copy of Question and Answers
Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive what the ramifications for cultural activity in Scotland are of the requirement for a certificate of sponsorship under the UK Government’s points-based immigration system. (S3W-24536)
Immediate release
16/06/09
Highlands and Islands SNP MSP Rob Gibson has welcomed an assurance from the Scottish Government that they are pressing the UK Government over laws which discourage non EU artists and performers from coming to Scotland.
Mr Gibson was speaking after he received written answers from Culture Minister Mike Russell regarding new UK anti terror laws which place greater restrictions on performers from outwith the EU visiting the UK.
The new laws were highlighted recently after Canadian Singer Allison Crowe and two band mates were refused entry into the UK and were deported because of the new rules.
Mr Russell responded that it was vital that performers and artist contributing to Scotland's world renowned festivals and events were welcomed and not shunned. He also said that UK immigration system should meet the needs of the whole of the UK and was pressing the Home Office to ensure that the distinct needs of Scotland were taken into account.
Mr Gibson, who is due to speak in a Festivals debate this week in Holyrood said....
"It is encouraging to see the Scottish Government pressing the case with the Home Office. These laws will do more to endanger the cultural life blood of Scotland than they will protect it from terrorism."
"These laws do no favours for culture in the UK whether it be England, Wales or Northern Ireland. I hope that Scotland can gain concessions from the new Home Office Minister Alan Johnston."
"Scotland should be seen as a welcoming and culturally open Nation (especially as this is the Year of Homecoming) however these laws contradict that image. I hope that the new Home Office Minister realises that the actions of his predecessor have tarnished that image and will make changes."
ENDS
Note: Copy of Question and Answers
Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive what the ramifications for cultural activity in Scotland are of the requirement for a certificate of sponsorship under the UK Government’s points-based immigration system. (S3W-24536)
Mr Michael Russell: Our world renowned cultural festivals and events are vital to attracting tourists and artists and contributing to our economy. It is vital that those who are coming here to contribute are welcomed, not shunned.
The UK immigration system should meet the needs of the whole of the UK and we are pressing the Home Office to ensure that the distinct needs of Scotland are taken into account.
Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive what it can do to encourage non-EU artists to visit and perform in Scotland. (S3W-24537)
The UK immigration system should meet the needs of the whole of the UK and we are pressing the Home Office to ensure that the distinct needs of Scotland are taken into account.
Rob Gibson (Highlands and Islands) (SNP): To ask the Scottish Executive what it can do to encourage non-EU artists to visit and perform in Scotland. (S3W-24537)
Mr Michael Russell: The UK immigration system should meet the needs of the whole of the UK and we are pressing the Home Office to ensure that the distinct needs of Scotland are taken into account. We are also working with colleagues at the UK Border Agency to ensure more is done to inform Scottish based organisers and promoters about immigration systems and regulations, and to provide support and advice where possible.
Our Relocation Advisory Service (RAS) aims to assist and advise those who wish to live and work in Scotland, including those from the Cultural sector. They seek to create a seamless service that streamlines UK, Scotland and local public services to make things easier for people to move to this country to live and work. The welcoming package includes information on living and working in Scotland, cultural networks, information on diversity and equality issues, where to seek employment, accommodation and healthcare and provides information on Immigration issues such as work permits and visas. People are able to contact RAS via the website at www.scotlandistheplace.com, by telephone or, if they are in Glasgow, through a face to face meeting.
Our Relocation Advisory Service (RAS) aims to assist and advise those who wish to live and work in Scotland, including those from the Cultural sector. They seek to create a seamless service that streamlines UK, Scotland and local public services to make things easier for people to move to this country to live and work. The welcoming package includes information on living and working in Scotland, cultural networks, information on diversity and equality issues, where to seek employment, accommodation and healthcare and provides information on Immigration issues such as work permits and visas. People are able to contact RAS via the website at www.scotlandistheplace.com, by telephone or, if they are in Glasgow, through a face to face meeting.
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